November 23, 2022

What is Tuckpointing?

Tuckpointing Chicago is a process of repairing mortar joints between bricks or stones with a narrow ridge of lime putty or fine lime mortar to restore its appearance and integrity. To begin the process, a mason will use a router or grinder to remove the damaged mortar. The mason will cut thin strips down the middle of the joints, which form grooves. Then, the mason fills in the grooves with mortar that matches the original color of the brickwork.

The process of pointing seals out moisture from invading the mortar joints of a building’s exterior, preventing further deterioration of the mortar and giving the face of the wall a facelift. This process also imitates rubbed brick masonry by creating a contrasting thin line in the center of each joint, creating an illusion that all of the joints look perfectly straight.